Cruising the Bay of Islands is a smart way to experience New Zealand’s maritime playground. The best tours combine sightseeing with cultural insights – all while avoiding the tourist traps. Traditional tall ships offer authentic sailing experiences, while luxury catamarans deliver intimate, upscale adventures complete with chef-prepared meals. I’m especially fond of the full-day excursions that include hidden coves and remote beaches – they give you the most bang for your buck. The shore excursions to glow worm caves and waterfalls are worth considering, particularly when combined with local food tastings. Let’s explore the standout boat tours that showcase the best of the Bay.
Key Points
- The R. Tucker Thompson historic tall ship offers a unique 2-hour sunset cruise with sail hoisting and shared antipasto platter.
- Vigilant Yacht Charters provides full-day tours with sailing, hiking, kayaking, and swimming, receiving high praise for crew professionalism.
- Mullarkey Tours Limited offers scenic wine and craft beer tours with knowledgeable guides, though some inconsistencies in tasting portions and lunch quality.
- Private Catamaran Charters provide customized luxury sailing experiences with inclusions like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and gourmet lunch.
- The Glow Worm Caves Tour is a highly-rated shore excursion for cruise ship passengers, offering a comprehensive experience at a great value.
Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
The Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s maritime heritage aboard the historic R. Tucker Thompson tall ship.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 2-hour cruise provides an unforgettable experience. Passengers can help hoist the sails, climb the rigging, and enjoy sunset views from the bowsprit, all while indulging in a shared antipasto platter and beverages from the onboard bar.
The cruise departs from Russell Wharf and includes hotel pickup, drop-off, and free ferry transfers from Paihia. This wheelchair and stroller-accessible tour is perfect for families and groups, with a maximum capacity of 47 travelers.
Read our full review: Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing Review
Book now: Check availability
Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters
Vigilant Yacht Charters offers a captivating full-day tour of the Bay of Islands, a coastal region renowned for its stunning natural beauty.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience, allowing guests to explore the islands and engage with the knowledgeable local crew.
The tour includes sailing, hiking, kayaking, and swimming, as well as a delicious lunch with vegetarian options.
Consistently earning high praise from travelers, the crew is praised for their professionalism and friendly demeanor.
While some guests wish for more time on land and varied lunch options, the overall experience is consistently rated as enjoyable, with beautiful scenery and a well-rounded itinerary.
Read our full review: Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters Review
Book now: Check availability
Cruise Ship – Bay of Islands Wine & Craft Beer Tour With Lunch
Mullarkey Tours Limited offers a Cruise Ship – Bay of Islands Wine & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch, catering to travelers seeking a delightful exploration of the region’s renowned vineyards and breweries.
The tour takes guests on scenic drives through the Bay of Islands countryside, visiting various wineries and a craft beer distillery.
While reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and enjoyable experiences, some travelers note inconsistencies in the wine tasting portions and lunch quality.
Areas for improvement include enhancing audio quality, providing clearer itinerary details, and offering more in-depth explanations during the stops.
Read our full review: Cruise Ship – Bay of Islands Wine & Craft Beer Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Luxury Sailing Catamaran Charter in the Bay of Islands
Aboard a private luxury sailing catamaran, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Bay of Islands.
This 5-star rated experience offers a range of inclusions, from snorkeling and paddleboarding to fishing equipment and a gourmet lunch. Prices start from $1,130.15 per person, with variation based on group size.
While the charter is non-refundable, a lowest price guarantee is offered. Travelers can select their own meeting point, and the tour returns to the same location.
This private tour is accessible to most, though not suitable for wheelchair users, and infants must sit on laps. Immediate booking confirmation is provided, unless booked within 7 days.
Read our full review: Private Luxury Sailing Catamaran Charter in the Bay of Islands Review
Book now: Check availability
Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch
Travelers can sail the picturesque Bay of Islands aboard the iconic tall ship “R. Tucker Thompson,” a replica of a 100-year-old schooner.
This 5.5-hour sailing tour includes morning tea with freshly baked scones and a BBQ lunch. Guests can climb the rigging and look out for marine life like penguins and dolphins.
Recommended by 99% of travelers, the tour offers a unique experience supported by friendly, knowledgeable crew. Onboard amenities like wet weather gear and a bar are provided.
The tour departs from Paihia, with round-trip ferry transport available, and can accommodate up to 47 travelers, including those with disabilities.
Read our full review: Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Popular Cruise Ship Tour* Bay of Islands and Glow Worm Caves Shore Excursion
For cruise-ship passengers with limited time, the Bay of Islands and Glow Worm Caves Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
Rated 4.5 stars with 205 reviews, this tour takes travelers to iconic locations like the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, Haruru Falls, and the Makana Chocolate Factory.
Highlights include informative commentary from knowledgeable guides and a chance to sample local chocolate.
While some reviewers noted occasional overcrowding, the tour is generally well-received as a great value compared to ship-offered excursions.
With a maximum of 35 travelers, this air-conditioned shore excursion provides an efficient way to explore the Bay of Islands’ natural wonders during a cruise stopover.
Read our full review: *Popular Cruise Ship Tour* Bay of Islands and Glow Worm Caves Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Yacht Charter and Island Excursions in the Bay of Islands
The S/V Love Machine, a turquoise-colored yacht, offers private charter excursions that allow guests to explore the stunning Bay of Islands in New Zealand.
The experience starts at the Russell Wharf at 10:00 am and includes a delicious lunch of ham and mushroom quiche, salad, and rose wine. Guests can also enjoy coffee, tea, and use snorkeling equipment and paddleboards.
The tour is private, with only your group participating, and is easily accessible by public transportation.
Reviews are exceptional, with guests praising the wonderful crew, great food, and excellent activities like hiking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed trip or an adventurous excursion, the S/V Love Machine delivers a customized and highly recommended experience.
Read our full review: Private Yacht Charter and Island Excursions in the Bay of Islands Review
Book now: Check availability
Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands
Phantom Sailing offers a delightful day of exploration in the picturesque Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
With 99% of travelers recommending the tour, it’s clear Phantom Sailing delivers an exceptional experience.
The 4-hour cruise aboard a red boat showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty and fascinating history. Guests can snorkel, enjoy a homemade lunch, and perhaps even spot dolphins.
The personalized tour, limited to 10 travelers, ensures an intimate and memorable outing. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable hosts, Rick and Robin, who provide a safe and comfortable journey.
At $104.37 per person, Phantom Sailing is a top choice for those seeking a unique and captivating adventure in the Bay of Islands.
Read our full review: Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer From Bay of Islands Cruise Port to Auckland City
Travelers seeking a hassle-free journey from the Bay of Islands cruise port to the vibrant city of Auckland can opt for a private transfer service.
This air-conditioned, private transportation option provides a comfortable and efficient way to travel, with a driver holding a signboard to greet you upon arrival.
The service isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it does accommodate strollers and infant seats.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of a direct transfer to Auckland, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
At a price starting from $527.78 per person, this private transfer offers a seamless and personalized experience.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Bay of Islands Cruise Port to Auckland City Review
Book now: Check availability
Afternoon Sail – Bay of Islands Vigilant Yacht Charters
Offering a tranquil and immersive experience, the Afternoon Sail with Vigilant Yacht Charters in the stunning Bay of Islands allows visitors to bask in the natural beauty of this picturesque region.
Priced at $506.93 for a private group of up to 10, the tour includes coffee, tea, alcoholic drinks, and snacks, as well as a local guide, sightseeing, hiking, and the use of kayaks.
Guests are picked up from the Russell Wharf and dropped off at the end of the 4 PM sailing. Confirmed bookings are subject to availability, and no refunds are offered for cancellations.
Read our full review: Afternoon Sail – Bay of Islands Vigilant Yacht Charters Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
The Bay of Islands offers a variety of exciting cruise and boat tour options. From tall ship sailing to private luxury charters, visitors can experience the stunning scenery and rich history of this picturesque region. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing afternoon sail or a full-day adventure, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests and budget in the Bay of Islands.